Description - A fanfiction of Final Fantasy VII with lovable Reno. My original bishounen (Japanese for "cute boy") also stars. It's nice and long!

(Warning: There are some swear words in here... Also, this is a mildly yaoi story, although there's nothing graphic. If you are easily offended, please refrain from reading!)

Since this story is so long, here are hot links to jump to the desired parts:

Part II: Clone

Part III: Scientist

Part IV: Cid

Part V: Sephiroth

Part VI: Lune

Part VII: Followers

Part VIII: Finale

Part IX: Epilogue

The night was yet young.

Reno sat alone on the counter of the renewed Tifa's Seventh heaven, sipping on a shot of vodka. The ex-Turk had recently became a regular customer to the bar; when he first visited it a couple of months ago, he had been expecting a gun nuzzle or a sword tip pointed at his chest, but contrary to his anticipation, the brunette owner of the place merely raised an eyebrow and offered him a glass.

"Give me another, Tifa." Having emptied what was his fifth glass for the night, Reno slurred half-mindedly.

"You are drinking too much, Reno. Why don't you call it for the night?"

"I'm OK. Come on, Tifa, just one more."

"What's wrong with you that you can't stand being sober? Reno, is something...?" Tifa began to ask, but stopped. It wasn't her

business to probe into customer's business. Sighing, she filled the cup with potent liquor, and handed it to the redhead rebel.

"Thanks."

With a wry grin, Reno swallowed the bitter drink.

Shit, my head hurts like hell...

Reno strolled down the dark Midgar street in dangerously swaying steps. He definitely had too much to drink, and the entire world was swirling upside down like a messed up kaleidoscope.

All right, Reno, so much for screwing your brains. All vodka in the world can't fix your problems.

With a sardonic smirk, Reno leaned his back towards the dirty brick wall and sagged slowly to the ground. He pulled loose strands of reddish-orange hair back, off of his face, and reminisced his turbulent Turks days.

Rude, man, I miss you.

After the final showdown with Cloud Strife and his party in the Midgar subways, the Turks had disbanded and gone separate ways.

Elena went to care for Tseng, who was still hospitalized in CPU of Mideel Hospital. She had plans all laid out for after his recovery, and Reno figured that he wouldn't be seeing much of her or Tseng.

Then there was Rude. Always the quiet one, he did not say much about what he wanted to do. Only that he was going to travel for a while. Reno was too afraid to ask to tag along, afraid of rejection which was too visible. Rude had that grim line set in his jaw; that don't-even-ask-Reno-I'm-going-alone line.

Thus, Reno was left alone in Midgar. He thought he could bear it, but found out soon enough that he couldn't. It was ironic. A Turk was trained to be a loner; after all, he was a secret agent.

Why am I acting so goddamn weak!? Get a grip!

Reno scolded his sentimentality. He knew that he was becoming too soft. He was starting to miss the battle-filled days. It was that melancholy which drew him to Tifa's bar in the first place. He wanted to relive those glorious battle-filled days by seeing the ex-Avalanche.

Deep in nostalgic thoughts, Reno was oblivious to his surroundings. He could hear people approaching, yelling something to each other. He blankly stared at them, and saw that they were dressed in black suits, just like how the Turks used to dress. Only, those men were much more sinister-looking, with drawn handguns and eyes glittering with blood-hunger. Seeing the dangerous gleam, Reno felt his heart thump faster in anticipation of battle.

Don't you dare, Reno! This is none of your business!

Reno quickly scolded himself, and restrained his legs, which were almost ready to spring towards the men with war-cry.

At that moment, a scream filled the area. The voice was clearly juvenile, with such a clear soprano that gender of the owner was incomprehensible. Reno searched for the origin of the painful outcry, and found a small figure in ramble with the men in suits. By the looks, it was a youth no older than fifteen. The alley was too dark to distinguish whether it was girl or boy.

"Let go! No! Don't..."

The voice, which was now close enough to be audible, trailed off in muffled cries. Reno saw that the petite silhouette was being blotted out by the larger ones, apparently captured in the struggle.

Kidnaping? So many of them against one kid.

Reno's cobalt eyes narrowed in distaste. As a Turk, he had done many dirty jobs, including kidnaping and even murder; however, he didn't like what he was witnessing. He heard another, restrained yelp from the youngster, and saw one frail arms being twisted back cruelly. He thought he heard something snap, and realized it was the kid's arms breaking.

Perhaps, it was the alcohol; perhaps it was what was left of his sense of justice. For reason unknown even to himself, Reno broke into a sprint to interfere the assault.

Closer. Closer. Reno stopped when he was several yards away from the crowd. Now, he could see the young captive clearly; magnificent silver tresses cut around the shoulders, delicate build, simple white shirt and cotton pants. He couldn't see the face which was slumped forward in a state of unconsciousness, but noted that the skin was pale cream color. The gender was still indeterminable.

"Let the kid go, you bastards!"

The villains all looked at Reno in disbelief. They took one glance, and immediately dismissed him as no difficulty. What could a semi-anorexic drunkard do against half a dozen armed men?

"Stupid, ugly drunk," muttered one of the ruffians. He raised the handgun towards Reno.

"You blind? I'm the VERY handsome and intelligent drunk!" With that incomprehensibly slurred exclamation, the ex-Turk swished his nightstick out of its hiding place under the loose jacket, and swung it full force at the enemy's head.

CRACK!

A sickening sound of metal contacting flesh exploded into the air. The man in suits spurted blood from his head. His eyes rolled back into sockets and his bulk fell to the ground with a thud.

"Hit you too hard, didn't I?" Reno gave an intoxicated chuckle. He was enjoying himself; the adrenaline rush was delightful, as his muscle tensed all over, readying for the attacks to come. In midst of a battle was where he belonged, not some peaceful slums.

"Kill him! Be quick, I hear them coming!"

Gunshots followed the order, but none scored home. Reno, having dodged the bullets expertly, closed in on next three men, and bashed them senseless with the electro rod. Only two more left standing.

"Give me the kid. Then, maybe I'll let you guys go," commanded Reno with frighteningly confident smirk.

"Damn!" The men hissed unbelievingly. Thence, they did what any other professional kidnaper would have done. They turned 180 degrees, and broke into a ran for their lives, taking the poor kid with them.

"Hey!" Reno started, but was cut short by multiple gunshot sounds. At first, he thought it was the villains shooting at him; however, he realized otherwise as the bodies of those men fell lifelessly to the ground.

What the hell!?

Two new figures now appeared from the far corner ahead of Reno. He squinted, finding the dark shadows familiar. One was short, with distinctive spiky hair and gigantic sword. Other was slender and tall, his long hair and longer cape waving in the breeze.

"Reno? What are you doing here?" Youthful voice of acquainted ex-SOLDIER called out. There was a slight hint of alarm in the voice.

Jesus, it's Cloud and that vampire guy, Vincent!

As Reno stared at his former enemies wide-eyed, Vincent knelt beside the moon-haired kidnaping victim, who lay unmoving on the ground.

"Is he all right?" Cloud asked his dark companion. His eyes never left Reno, and his stance was that of a guard.

He? So it is a boy. Why is Cloud acting so damn suspicious of me?

Reno watched with mild irritation as Vincent carefully checked on the boy. Vincent turned the small body, and Reno caught the first glimpse of the boy's pale face.

Whoa...

Beautiful was the first adjective in Reno's train of thoughts. Smooth skin, covered partly by the straight silken strands of silver. Narrow facial outline, with elegantly pointed chin. Straight nose, thin, perfect lips, thick lashes drew shadows upon closed eyes, which he presumed to be slanted upward like those of a feline.

Wait a minute, I've seen that face somewhere...!

Reno searched through his memory for the cunning resemblance he found. His jaws almost dropped when he realized who the boy reminded him of.

"Sephiroth!?" The ex-Turk blurted out.

"Why are you so surprised? Aren't you after him, too?" Cloud's mako eyes narrowed distrustfully.

"Whatcha talking about? I just came from Tifa's place, and saw the kid getting picked upon. These guys are the ones who wanted the kid!" Reno pointed at the bodies of men-in-suits. He still didn't know what was going on with Cloud and Vincent and the mysterious Sephiroth-look-a-like, but he knew it was something serious.

"Reno is telling the truth, Cloud." Vincent cut in quietly. He stood up, cradling the delectable youth in his arms. "Cloud, they broke his arm. Do you have the Cure materia?"

"What!? Damn them!" Enraged ex-SOLDIER kicked at one of the corpses. "No, I don't have any materias right now. Guess we have to take him back to Reeve."

Reeve? Shinra is involved?

After deaths of President Shinra and Rufus, the Shinra Corporation had become Reeve's domain. The former executive had taken over as a new and improved leader of the infamous company, and had since helped rebuild Midgar and taken care of the Mako problems all over the world.

"Reno, thanks for stopping these bastards. I'll ask Tifa to give you some freebies." Cloud smiled with good amount of gratitude, and turned to go, Vincent following.

"Wait! What the hell's going on? Why does that kid look like a damn copy of Sephiroth?"

The two heroes halted. Cloud sent Reno a strange look, a why-do-you-care? kind.

"Reno, you don't want to be involved. Trust me. This is a dangerous situation..." Cloud began.

"Great! I'm bored with the whole peace thing. Place me in danger, give me battles!" Reno interrupted excitedly, his eyes shining brightly.

"Oh man..." Cloud sighed. "Why do you Turks have to cause so much trouble?"

"C'mon, Cloud! You know I can fight! I'll make a good addition to your manpower." Not at least bothered by Cloud's comment, Reno gave another push.

"I know that. What do you think, Vincent?" The blond warrior looked upon the darkly handsome companion for an input.

"Reno has witnessed the top secret of Shinra. We can't let his go so easily, Cloud. It will benefit us both to have him on our side." The ever-thoughtful vampire concluded. That convinced Cloud, who again sighed deeply and looked at Reno in resignation.

"Welcome aboard, Reno. You will regret it."

"Thanks, Cloud. You won't regret it!" Reno answered smugly, and followed the ex-SOLDIER and the vampire to the Shinra Headquarters.

The Shinra Headquarters had been rebuilt nicely. Reno shuffled uncomfortably as the completely renewed atmosphere surrounded him. The former building had been sharp and professional type; this one was very white and visitor friendly, with You Are Here maps in the center halls. There were no security guards in sight, but Reno hoped that all the pretty concierge girls to be armed with the blaster cannons. He couldn't imagine the Shinra HQ as unprotected civilian plaza.

"I'll join you later. I must care for him." Vincent disappeared into one of the ID-card elevators, taking the Sephiroth child with him.

"Who is that kid?" Reno looked at Cloud, but the blond ex-SOLDIER shrugged the question off.

"I don't know much. Haven't you noticed that Vincent and I both refer to him as 'he'?" The bright mako eyes weren't lying. "We saw him for the first time this morning. Don't know anything about him."

"Why does he..."

"Look so much like Sephiroth?" Cloud finished the question. "Reeve told us that the boy is the last Sephiroth clone by Hojo. That's why those men were after him. If you want to know more, better ask Reeve."

The President's Suite was very different from how Reno had seen it last. There were no flashy decorations, slutty secretary, or suffocating air of superiority. Reeve was sitting at the neatly kept desk, busying himself over a pile of paperwork.

"Reeve." Cloud approached the new Shinra President. Reno walked a few steps behind.

"Ah, Cloud and Reno. I was expecting you two." Reeve smiled. His natural tongue was not accented like his Cait Sith alter ego. "Reno, Vincent has informed me of your part in the boy's rescue. You have my gratitude."

"No need, uh..."

"Reeve would be fine."

"OK, Reeve." Reno shuffled slightly on his feet uncertainly before his curiosity took over. "Um, what's the kid's name?"

"Are you interested in him?" Reeve asked with a sly undertone. When the redhead ex-Turk shook his head in a vigorous denial, the mustached man let out a good natured chuckle. "Just joking. Name, huh? The notes left by Hojo identifies him as Number 26. That's what he called himself."

"Another number? The insane scientist really had no compassion." Cloud muttered in disgust. He remembered the time when he had asked Hojo for a number, when he had mistaken himself for Sephiroth Clone. The madman had denied him even that, and had called him a 'failure.' The hunched maniac was not someone Cloud could ever grow to like.

"How did you find the kid?" Questioned Reno, eager to know more about the beautiful creation of experiment. He refused to addressed the boy by the serial number. "Us Turks filtered Hojo's hideouts completely, and I know that you guys did, too. Was there another plant?"

"No. The boy was living with Hojo. We found him in the professor's mansion under automated life-preserving system."

"Living with that creep...?" Reno and Cloud muttered simultaneously, thinking the same disturbing thoughts.

"......Yes. And what you two are thinking of... had been done. I'm afraid the damage is extensive, both physical and mental. The boy keeps to himself a lot, and shows extreme fear of physical contact." Reeve's dark eyes narrowed gravely. He opened his mouth to say something more, but a beep from the desktop phone interrupted. He answered the call.

"...I'm glad to hear that. Join us here, Vincent, and bring the boy with you."

"How's his arm?" The ex-Turk asked. He couldn't help but pity the unfortunate youth, who had to suffer through a lifetime of hell.

"All mended. Let's talk with him and see what else we can find out."

Vincent Valentine escorted the young clone up the elevator wordlessly. Occasionally, he stole a glance at the pale countenance, and marveled over the resemblance to Sephiroth as well as to Lucresia. Although the coloring was different, the child, Sephiroth, and Lucresia all shared the similar cool beauty.

The elevator stopped smoothly on the top floor, where the two got off it.

"Are we going to see Reeve?" The boy asked quietly, not ceasing to walk.

"Yes. Also Cloud, the blond ex-SOLDIER you saw with me this morning, and another man... his name is Reno. He prevented your abduction." The vampire answered calmly.

The conversation fell awkwardly. The silver-haired boy nodded absent-mindedly, and the taller man couldn't read what was going on in his mind. Those green eyes, so much like Sephiroth's, were hard to look into, although they lacked the mako glow or insanity of the original demon. Long lashes fluttered elegantly in infrequent blinks, the motions more mechanical than natural.

Vincent opened the grand door for his companion, and the two entered the President's private chamber.

"Ah, welcome." Reeve beckoned both newcomers to take seats on the sofa. Vincent took the space next to Cloud without hesitation, and the boy, after a moment of stare at Reno, cautiously sat down next to him.

The ex-Turk felt his heart skip a beat. He thought himself strange, but couldn't peel off his gaze off the beauty presented so close to him.

God, how can anyone be so... perfectly beautiful?

Reno let out a small sigh of appreciation; then, he caught himself, and hastily let his gaze wander elsewhere.

What the hell's wrong with me!? The kid is a boy! A B-O-Y!

Reno screamed inwardly. He was confused. Physical beauty was not something he took seriously. Besides, he had seen his share of pretty faces with Elena, Aeris, and the original Sephiroth. Was there something else about the youth drawing his attention?

While the redhead revel visibly suffered internal conflict, Cloud, Vincent, and Reeve suppressed their amusement. Reeve, especially, seemed to enjoy Reno's panic.

Our ex-Turk is a very interesting individual, indeed. Perhaps, he will become a useful piece in the whole JENOVA intrigue...

The middle-aged Shinra President concealed his smug calculation. He saw the mako-eyed ex-SOLDIER exchange a strange look with the dark vampire beside him. Reeve knew what was going on in their minds, because he knew of their secret affair. The sight of Reno grueling over the issue of his sexuality (or perhaps not so gave, but something related) must be a de javu of what the two lovers had gone through in the past.

The youth remained expressionless, his slightly sharp eyes cast directly front. If he was aware of Reno's discomfort or the others' drollery, he didn't show it at all.

Reeve cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention.

"Shall we begin?"

The whole discussion lasted about two hours, and during that time, Reno found out much about what he had gotten himself into.

The boy did not object to casting away the serial number for a decent name, so after a brief debate, it was decided that he will be called Lune. It was Reno's inspiration, crossing the silver-colored hair with the word "lunar" and the elegant mysteriousness with the word "rune."

Reeve explained that after the Meteor commotion, an underground organization by the name of the Followers of JENOVA arose like a new cult. The group had an unidentified sponsor, who hired the dark-clad hit-men to kidnap Lune to acquire the JENOVA DNA. Even Shinra's high-tech information ring has not figured out why the cult was after JENOVA's power, but from the violent nature of its activities, Reeve knew that it was not for the good of the world.

Lune was rescued from Hojo's house last night, and was kidnaped this afternoon while touring around the Shinra Building. Reno had intercepted the villains, and that was how the whole situation came to how it was now.

"I believe that we need to place Lune under 24-hour guarding. And that, Reno, I assign you to do."

Reno couldn't believe his ears. Cloud and Vincent merely lifted their eyebrows at the Shinra President, but voiced no objection.

"Why me, Reeve? That's a hell of a lot of responsibility to give someone like me."

"We are all in this together, Reno. You are our comrade now, and I expect you to be devoted." Reeve answered seriously. "The Followers of JENOVA may attack any time. Do you want Lune to suffer another abduction?"

"Hell NO!" Reno exclaimed a bit too strongly. He flushed red.

"Then you will stay with him 24 hours daily and protect him." Reeve commanded with just a small hint of smugness.

"What should we do, Reeve?" Cloud asked, Vincent nodding to second the question.

"The Followers of JENOVA, we shall call them Followers for short, has a powerful sponsor. I want you two to find out what it is."

"Understood." The two heroes stood and left together.

"Reno, Lune, you two are dismissed. I will provide housing for both of you within the top-security sector of this building. Please don't leave the building without first contacting me."

Reeve waved the two towards the door, and went back to his other works.

"This place looks nice and cozy, doesn't it?"

"........."

Reno sighed inwardly when Lune ignored him for the fourth time since they left the President's Office. The boy was extremely introverted, not to mention unbelievably aloof. Reno wondered if the boy was deaf, mute, and blind. Those beautiful emerald eyes were always fixed straight ahead, and he seemed oblivious to his surroundings.

'Try not to have physical contact. He panics.'

Reeve's warning replayed in Reno's mind, and the redhead Turk sighed once more.

And I'm supposed to live with this kid in a room with only one bed... Great. Guess I'm preordained to sleep on the couch. What was Reeve thinking anyway to stick me with this kid? Not that I mind...

Trifle irritated by the Shinra President's secret intentions and lack of preparation, the ex-Turk ventured into the room deeper, peeking every corner. He found a bathroom, which was of a decent size, with a luxurious Jacuzzi. A pair of super-white bathrobes were hung besides the showers.

OK, this place reminds me of a love hotel.

An obscene image of Lune and himself sprang in Reno's head. He shook his head violently, and whacked himself a couple of times. He hated himself even for thinking such thing. The boy did not deserve that from his bodyguard.

"Reno...."

"Huh?"

The redhead spun around, unsettled by the sudden address. He found Lune looking at him, probably for the first time since their introduction.

"...There's only one bed."

"Uh..., I know."

Why is he so pale all of a sudden?

Reno gulped as he watched the boy's exquisite face gradually crumble into an expression of hurt and fear. A sob escaped the cherry-colored lips, accompanied by twin teardrops sliding down the smooth cheeks.

"L-Lune? What's the matter!?"

"...I don't...want...to..."

Another sob, then a continuous trail of them followed. Now, Lune was openly weeping, trembling like a small child. Reno stood dumbfounded and confused, still not contemplating what was going on. The boy had been so stoic, almost like a doll; the rage of emotions he was now exhibiting was totally unexpected.

"I...don't...,please..."

"Come on, Lune. You gotta tell me what's biting at you."

"...don't...want...to...do it."

'It'?

The revelation came to Reno, and he bit his lips in pity for Lune. The poor boy had misunderstood the on-bed situation with a past trauma. Again, Reno cursed Reeve, for planting unnecessary fear in the boy, though he knew that the President did not mean to do it.

"Lune, don't be scared, OK? I'll be sleeping on the couch over there, you use the bed. I'm not gonna lay a finger on you."

"........."

Reno put on his best smile, hoping to relieve the crying youth. He wanted to hug Lune and tell him that Hojo will never hurt him again, but knew he shouldn't.

"....Thank you."

The silver-haired boy cast down his green gaze nervously.

"Look, kiddo. I'm gonna hop into the showers and sleep already. If you need me, just wake me up, OK?"

"Yes. I'm sorry...I...lost myself."

"No prob'."

Reno gave a good-natured wink, and retired into the showers.

Cloud and Vincent returned to the Shinra HQ after two weeks of traveling all over the world in search for the Follower sponsor. They were worn out from the hasty transportation, but with the answer they needed, headed straight to Reeve's office.

"Come on, Lune. Reeve wants us in his room."

"Just a moment, please? I have to mark the page..."

"Bring the book along, why dontcha? I'm sure Reeve won't mind."

Reno urged his moon-tressed companion, putting his transceiver back into the front pocket of his jacket.

"I'm ready now." Lune held the voluminous book he had been reading, and smiled.

Reno returned Lune's small smile with his own appreciative grin. It had taken him ten days to gain the boy's trust, and two more to view the brilliant smile. Although he still refrained from touching Lune, Reno considered him his friend.

"Let's go, then."

The two stepped into the elevators and ascended to the top floor where the Shinra President awaited.

Reeve was already speaking with Cloud and Vincent when Reno entered followed by Lune. From the grim expressions on their faces, the ex-Turk speculated that there was some bad news.

"Ah, Reno and Lune. Take your seats. There is an issue of great importance we must discuss." The bearded President motioned the newcomers towards the sofas, and took a seat himself. Cloud and Vincent sat down, also.

"Hey, Reno. Hey, Lune. You guys getting along fine?" Cloud inquired conversationally.

"We became pals, right, Lune?" Reno answered lightly. Lune nodded shyly in agreement, apparently uncomfortable around Cloud and Vincent, to whom he was not very familiar.

"Great. Reeve, shall I tell them?"

"Cloud, let me." Vincent suggested. He looked at Reeve, who nodded in consent, then at Cloud, who did so, too.

The dark vampire turned his crimson gaze at Reno and Lune, his expression intense and unreadable. It made the ex-Turk nervous.

What's going on?

"Cloud and I... we found who is sponsoring the Followers. And their..., no, his intention in trying to acquire JENOVA DNA from Lune."

"Well, who was it? You told Reeve, right?"

I can't stand this suspense thing!

Reno asked impatiently, not liking the way Vincent played around with his words.

"...It's Professor Gust."

The totally unanticipated name threw Reno off. He gaped at Vincent, then at Cloud and Reeve, who nodded truthfully.

"What!? But that's impossible! The guy's..."

"Dead? No. Apparently, Hojo's murder attempt had been a failure. Professor Gust is very much alive. Somehow, he has gained power and influence in the Rocket Town area."

Gust... Aeris girl's father, Sephiroth's guardian, former head of Shinra's JENOVA research...

Reno reviewed what he knew about the ex-Shinra researcher. Gust had been the director of Scientific Research Division, a brilliant genius. He was a madman, although not as violent or twisted as Hojo; until he eloped with his Cetra specimen, Gust had been involved in many monster-producing JENOVA experiments.

"What does Gust want with Lune?"

"The Professor plans to establish a private army of Sephiroth clones."

....What the fuck!?

The redhead rebel almost screamed out loud. He contained himself, and asked slowly.

"I suppose Gust needs Lune to make those Sephiroths, huh?"

"Yes." Vincent nodded decisively. "Reno, to clone a full grown man in a short term, a good chunk of DNA in flesh is required... Do you understand what I'm trying to say?"

"......No."

"Gust will make lambchop pieces out of Lune, that's what." Cloud clarified the horrifying point.

Reno heard Lune gasp next to him. He stole a glance, and saw the boy shivering, clutching the thick book for what little sense of security it gave him.

"Don't worry, Lune. I'll never let the SOB take you." Reno whispered sincerely to his petite friend, at the same time glaring at Cloud.

"Cloud, be sensible." Reeve cautioned the blond ex-SOLDIER curtly, and turned an apologetic gaze to Lune and Reno. "Reno, Gust has hired hundreds of ex-SOLDIERS to infiltrate this building in two days. We have to get you and Lune out of here."

"What the...!? There are thousands of civilians living around here. Does Gust want to start a goddamn war?"

"I know that the man is mad. Reno, Lune, I'm sorry but I can't risk lives of a thousand families. Gust has a spy in this building. If you two leave, he will know, and call off the attack." The Shinra President said bitterly.

Reno could see that the middle-aged man was suffering internal conflict of conscience. He understood the whole dilemma; Reeve had to choose between thousands of Midgar residents and Lune. The options were too limited.

I got no right to blame the man...

"All right, Reeve. Just tell us where to go, and we'll be gone tomorrow morning."

"Thank you. I hate to do this, you know?" Reeve seemed to age in an instant. "Stop by at Cid's place and ask for the Tiny Bronco. Then, go stay with Yuffie in Wutai. Gust's influence is probably weakest there."

"Understood."

"Cloud, Vincent, will you two contact Barret and Tifa? I need their help. We have to get Gust before he can get Lune. This is yet another battle we must fight."

"OK. Let's go, Vincent." The spiky-haired young man exited along with his partner.

"Lune, I'm sorry. Will you be all right with Reno?" Reeve asked with genuine concern. The boy nodded, somewhat uncertainly. He was obviously disturbed by the whole turn of events.

"Come on, Lune, let's go pack our stuff. Don't worry, Reeve. I can handle." Reno gave a reassurance to the President. "To the Rocket Town, huh?"

"Be careful, Reno. It is Gust's stronghold. He probably won't expect you there, but don't linger long. Oh, and tell Cid not to make any stupid moves. He lives there, and shouldn't risk his life or Shera's by going against Gust."

"Fine. Uh... do we get a car or something?"

It's a long way to the Rocket Town.

"Take anything you like from the garage. Nothing that stands out, though." Reeve answered. He walked over to the desk phone, and dialed the manager of the automobiles.

"Thanks."

Reno stood and left the room, Lune following silently.

The laboratory was brightly lit. Professor Gust leisurely flipped through the pages of his past research on JENOVA cells, speed-reading through the thick lenses.

"Aha! One hundred grams of flesh per Sephiroth. My calculations had been correct..." The scientist chuckled to himself. His intelligently handsome face did not reveal a hint of the madness lying underneath. He looked like any other kindly professor.

That clone child is nice and lean... can't get much meat samples from him. Ah, I will create several clones first, and use their flesh as well. Three hundred Sephiroths will do... for now.

Gust leaned back more into his seat. A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts.

"Come in."

"Professor, a new report from the Shinra HQ is in."

A beautiful secretary in black suits entered the room. She looked a lot like Ifalna, Gust's late wife and only love. However, this woman was in her early twenties. She was the clone of Ifalna; Gust had created her after the death of his beloved.

"What is it?"

"The Sephiroth clone has left the building with an ex-Turk. Their destination is unknown."

"Hmm. All right, call off the ex-SOLDIERS. The attack is canceled. Instead, send out several troops to search for the boy."

"Yes, sir."

The woman exited after a respectful bow. The professor smiled a little, his heart soaring in anticipation for the success of his plans.

Soon, JENOVA will come back to life. Her ancient knowledge and all-mighty power will be mine.

His triumphant laughter filled the room.

The buggy sped across the ragged road with fair speed. Behind the wheels, Reno hummed along with the pop-rock from the radio, while Lune looked out of the window curiously.

"Reno."

"Yeah?"

"What's that thing in the middle of the town?" Lune pointed one slender finger at the rocket.

"That's the rocket." Reno answered knowledgeably.

"Rocket?" The boy cocked his pretty head in question.

"Yeah, it's used to go out to space. Pretty cool, huh?"

"...I wonder if it still flies..."

"The guy who owns it wants it to."

Reno thought of the rowdy Captain Cid, who he knew was spending a good deal of time fixing the machine.

I hope Reeve let the dude know that we are dropping by. Don't wanna be stabbed dead at the door...

He parked the buggy right outside the town and stepped out.

"Let's go."

"I got no f#&king plane to lend to a f#&king Turk!"

The gray-haired pilot hurled his Venus Gospel towards Reno, who barely dodged it.

"Calm down, man! Reeve told us to come, I'm telling ya!"

"I don't believe any of your shit! Get the hell outta here!"

A commotion was the last thing Reno wanted in the middle of the Rocket Town. Already, townspeople were coming out of their houses, roused by Cid's angry yell.

"Please, don't hurt Reno!"

Lune threw himself in front of the redhead as Cid took another spear to stab at his supposed enemy. Cid's eyes widened in surprise at the silver-haired carbon copy of Sephiroth.

"What the hell!? A Turk and a kid-version of that JENOVA freak?!"

Things can't possibly get worse than this...

Reno pushed back his orangish tresses and sighed in exasperation.

"You outta your mind, Reeve!? Let that Turk take my Tiny Bronco!?"

Reno and Lune listened nervously to Cid scream into the receiver. Shera served them hot tea, and smiled reassuringly.

"Don't worry. Cid won't turn you away. I know it."

"Hope so." Reno sipped at the mug.

Need to get outta here ASAP. Thanks to the stupid cap, our presence must be known to Gust.

"Reno, is there a problem?" Lune asked worriedly.

"Nah, dontcha worry, kiddo. By the way, thanks for saving my skin out there." Reno gave a rueful grin. He reached out to ruffle the silken moon strands, but caught himself. The boy had cringed away visibly.

Don't ruin it for yourself, Reno...

The ex-Turk thought, unable to conceal his hurt and disappointment.

"I-I'm sorry." Lune flushed red, emerald gaze cast down. His reaction had been automatic; he was disheartened with himself for fearing Reno's touch.

Why am I still afraid? Reno is my friend... my only friend...

"No need." Reno decided to dismiss the issue. He saw that Cid had disconnected the phone, and was fuming silently.

OK, Reeve better have convinced the man...

"...Take the Bronco and leave. Don't you dare crash her, or I'll rip your head off!" Cid slammed a set of keys on the table and screamed. He abruptly turned and stormed out of the house before anyone could say anything.

"...Uh, thanks!" Reno called after the gruff pilot. "OK, Lune, let's go."

"...All right." The boy stood. Shera led the two of them out the back, to where the tiny place awaited.

Professor Gust watched the redhead ex-Turk and the comely boy through the secret video-camera. The two boarded the Highwind's plane, and took off without delay. A smile touched his cool lips as he observed what he desired.

Beautiful. He's not Sephiroth clone for nothing.

"Mira," he called the woman secretary.

"Yes, Professor?" She entered the room immediately.

"Contact my men at Wutai. The clone is headed their way.

"Yes, sir."

Gust touched the screen lightly, caressing the image of the silver-haired youth as if he were a precious jewel.

Twenty men should be enough. Too bad I can't send more ex-SOLDIERS to that isolated countryside...

Wutai was too far away from the Rocket Town. Gust was disappointed for not being able to capture the boy in his stronghold, but the news of the target's arrival came too late. He did not want to risk a failing attack and alarm the ex-Turk needlessly.

Might as well let them think that they are safe. There's still time.

The scientist smiled with his usual confidence.

Nothing can go wrong.

"Reno, are we... there yet?"

"Just a bit longer, Lune. You OK?"

Reno looked over his shoulder at the boy, who was pale from airsickness.

"I... don't know. My stomach feels weird..." Lune closed his green eyes and laid back into the leather seat. Relaxing didn't help him much, though. The urge to throw up was great, but that was the last thing he wanted to do. There was nothing to contain the mess he would make.

"Kiddo, if you gotta puke, go ahead. Just stick your head out to the air and do it downward, OK?"

".......Uh-huh."

The sickly response was followed consecutively by a sound vomiting. Reno sighed. He felt bad for Lune, but he could do nothing to remedy the ailing.

Even if I could console him, it's not like I can rub his back or hold his hair out of his face... Dammit, stop sulking, Reno!

The ex-Turk scolded himself for the bitter thought. He didn't know why he yearned so much to get closer to Lune; the desire was constantly there to feel the silken strands of silver or the texture of that porcelain skin. At first, Reno had thought that it was merely curiosity. However, he was beginning to realize that it was something much stronger.

Affection. That's what. Hell, I can't believe this myself.

Reno smirked sarcastically at himself. He was definitely growing some sort of feelings for the delectable boy. There was no doubt about it.

"Feel any better?" He called to the back.

"...A little. I don't have anything left in my stomach, but..." Another gagging sound. Reno sighed helplessly, and continued to maneuver the flying vehicle across the azure sky.

R-r-r-r-ring!

Yuffie Kisaragi yawned groggily, arms and legs stretched across the mattress like a small child. She reached for the phone with a murmur of curse at being waken up from her beauty nap.

"...Who is it? Oh, hi, Reeve. Horrible timing you called..." The ninja girl retorted at the well-acquainted caller. "Reno? He's coming here? ...All right, I won't bash his head in."

She fell silent, listening to the Shinra President as he explained the whole situation.

"WHAT!? Sephiroth's clone!?"

The tranquil was short-lived, however. The tomboy screamed out loud upon the mention of the old nemesis. Needless to say, in the conversation thenceforward, Reeve had a lot of explaining to do.

The barren mountain island of Wutai came into the view, and Reno couldn't help but be relieved. For the past two hours, he had to endure Lune groaning sickly in the back seat.

"Almost there, Lune. Hang on, alright?"

"Umm..."

Reno began the descent towards the grassy plains next to the town of Wutai. As the ground approached, he caught sight of many black dots spread across the greenery. He squinted hard to see what they were.

"...!! Oh, shit!"

KABOOM!

The Tiny Bronco swerved in the air, and the missile grazed her mid-section with minimum contact. Reno cursed again as the plane wobbled dangerously. Lune gave off a small scream when he was almost thrown out of the seat.

"Those bastards again!? Damn, at the worst timing!" The ex-Turk spat out. He was losing control of the vehicle. It crashed to the ground, luckily without exploding. The altitude had been low enough for the grass to cushion the impact.

Reno and Lune were thrown out of their seats, onto the plains with nowhere to take cover. The dark men formed a circle around the two, all armed with large guns.

These SOBs are not the same as the ones in Midgar. Shit, the ex-SOLDIERS!

The redhead faced the hardened soldiers, his hand reaching for the nightstick and a bag of materias hidden under his jacket. He would have enjoyed the losing battle had he been alone. However, he was now under the oath to protect Lune, and couldn't afford a defeat.

Let's just hope these guys don't have materias.

"Reno..." Lune whimpered.

"Stay behind me, kiddo. Do you know how to use materias?" Reno whispered back, trying to sound confident. The silver-haired boy shook his head negative.

"I'm sorry. I can't do anything..."

"It's alright. Here, take this one. It's called the Knights of the Round materia. If one of these guys try at you, hold it out and act like you are gonna use it, OK?" Reno handed the ruby-colored crystalline ball to the boy.

That should scare the scums off for a while. Now, for my part...

The ex-Turk gripped his weapon hard and edged inch by inch towards the closest enemy. A cold sweat tickled down his back. That was the trigger.

The battle which ensued was by far the toughest battle Reno ever had to face. Not only were the ex-SOLDIERS extremely skilled, they were armed with projectile weapons. With only his rod and several mediocre materias, Reno barely kept himself alive.

In the heat of the fight, Reno was glad that he didn't have to cover much for Lune. The boy was doing a decent job dodging the bullets and blows. He had good reflexes for an amateur.

Reeve should place him under training... The kid's a natural.

Reno saw an array of missiles flying his way, and deflected them with a Barrier spell. The stray bullets turned on their launchers, much to the redhead's amusement. He summoned Alexander without delay, and dispatched another three enemies.

Six down, hell of a lot to go...

A wry smirk touched Reno's lips. He swished his weapon at the closest ex-SOLDIER.

I wish Rude were here. Damn, I grew too used to fighting in a team.

Another bout of battle went by with only explosions, war-cries, and death-screams audible. Reno was running out of his stamina by the time he had taken out some more men. Lune seemed even more exhausted, though. The boy was literally sagging to the ground, no longer able to move.

"Lune!" Reno cried a warning when he saw one muscular ex-SOLDIER lunge towards the lithe boy. His call was in vain. The brute caught Lune by the neck, and wrung the small body off the earth.

"Agh!" Lune's emerald eyes widened with fear from the violent contact. The gagged outcry was cut short with suffocation.

Shit!

The ex-Turk felt the world turn crimson red. He jumped the villain in berserk fury; before he knew what he was doing, he had cracked open the man's skull with a swing of the rod. Lune fell to the ground in a coughing fit.

"Lune, you alright!?" Reno scrambled next to the boy. The moment felt like forever, until the silver-haired youth nodded weakly. Then, Reno realized how rash he had been to turn his attention away from so many enemies.

...I'm a damn fool!

Sound of metal triggers being pulled was followed by ear-deafening blast of gunfire. In an automatic reaction, Reno hugged Lune within his arms, shielding the boy from the deadly rain of bullets.

"Ugh!"

The electro rod fell through the loosened grip. Reno felt his back explode, and shearing pain spread throughout his body. His head suddenly felt heavy, as did the rest of him.

"Reno...!? Reno!"

Lune's soprano voice grew distant. Even his vision began to dim, and Reno wondered if he was going to die.

I don't give a damn if I die... God, just let me protect Lune...

The wounded redhead tried to stand, but his legs gave away. Soft body cushioned his fall, caught him before he hit the dirt. Two frail arms held him in desperate clutches.

"Reno, Reno, please don't die... Reno!"

Huh, it sure feels nice to be this close to him. Too bad I didn't get to enjoy this until now...

The ex-Turk closed his cobalt eyes slowly, and let the darkness take over.

"Reno!" Lune screamed the name of his friend. It was no use, though. The unexpectedly light body went slack in his arms. Panic hit him full force, and he repeated the ex-Turk's name over and over.

The ex-SOLDIERS closed in on the hysterical boy, off guard because the formidable foe was now incapacitated.

"The scum is half gone already, kid. Come!"

"Don't touch me!"

Lune glared at the man who took hold of his shoulder. There was an unmistakable kill-wish in the brilliant green eyes. The murderous gaze was piercing. For a moment, the ex-SOLDIER felt coldness in his guts.

"What are you doing? Grab him!"

The men reached out for Lune, all together this time. Lune hardened his grip on the red crystal ball which he still held. He had forgotten its existence.

"Let go, unworthy bastards!"

The superior tone of the command was identical to that which belonged to the original silver-haired demon. Simultaneous to the cry, bright red aura radiated from the ultimate Summon materia the boy held.

"Agh! What the...!"

The villains had no chance to finish their shocked exclamations. Thirteen magical Knights of the Round Table sprang to life in front of their eyes. The phantoms attacked without mercy, hacking, disembodying, decapitating.

The magnificent troop of paladins disappeared as soon as they had come. Lune was oblivious to the bloodshed around him when his surroundings became quiet with death. He held Reno tightly against himself, shivering.

Oh God, Reno is dying... It's all because of me... No! NO!

"Oh sheesh! What the heck happened here!?"

A girly voice lacking tension broke the eery silence. Lune snapped his head up, and found a skinny teenager not much older than himself gaping at the reddened ground. She was dressed strangely, but none of that really mattered to him. He glowered at her threateningly when she started towards him.

"Isn't that Reno? Man, he's in a bad shape... Show me his wound." Yuffie Kisaragi refused to shy away from the frightening gaze of the Sephiroth clone. Determined, she paced to the boy's side and knelt.

"Do you know him?"

"Duh, kiddo! I'm Yuffie Kisaragi. Reeve told you guys to come to me, right?"

"...I'm sorry. I thought you were..."

"No prob, OK? Just show me Reno's back. It really looks messy."

Yuffie wrinkled her nose at the sight of gushed skin and torn meat as Lune laid Reno on the ground face down. The injury was horrible; she was surprised that the man was still alive.

"...Kiddo."

"My name is Lune." The boy replied tightly. Somehow, he didn't want to be addressed by that nickname by anybody but Reno.

"Alright, Lune. Do you know how to use materia?" The ninja-girl handed the boy a Cure-All materia.

"I...guess so," Lune answered, looking at the Knights of the Round materia which he had just used. He took the green sphere hesitantly.

"You have to use this one, OK? I'll dig out the bullets, and you cast the spell to close the wound. Simple enough?" Yuffie took one short, narrow-edged knife, and dug it into one of Reno's wounds. She knew what she was doing; without much difficulty, she extracted the crumb of metal.

"......." Lune held out the materia and concentrated all his energy to cast the spell. His hand felt warm, then hot, until it was scorching with the magical power. He refused to let go of the magical crystal, despite the pain. A green glow reached out to light the gaping wound, and closed it in an instant.

"Wow! Now, that's high-level magic!" Yuffie commented, impressed by the effect of the spell. She couldn't do it so fast. She went back to taking out the bullets, picking up the pace.

The two teenagers continued to tend to the ex-Turk. When they were finished, the sun had traveled a good distance westward across the clear sky.

There was only pain.

My back feels like shit, my head feels like shit... Damn, my whole body feels like shit...

Reno groaned and turned his head to one side against the soft pillow. He realized that he was laid face down on a mattress, tucked under a comfortable coverlet. Its warmness didn't alleviate the pain much, though.

"Ugh."

"Reno?"

The redhead's eyes flew open at the lovely soprano. He blinked a couple of times to clear the blurred vision, and found the silver-haired beauty at the side of the futon.

"...L-Lune?" Reno called groggily.

Am I alive? Yeah, gotta be... the pain is real. What happened to the SOLDIER scums? God must have heard my prayers for once...

"Oh Reno..." Lune sobbed in relief.

"Kiddo, I'm alright. Don't...cry." Reno swallowed hard when the pain shot up his back. It only made Lune cry harder.

Oh man, I can't stand him crying.

Reno reached out with one hand, ignoring the agony in his shoulder, and brushed the teardrops off a smooth cheek. He did the same to the other cheek, then realized that he had carelessly touched the boy. Hastily, he began to draw his hand away, but Lune caught it softly.

"Please, don't withdraw from me. I'm not afraid anymore, Reno. I don't want to feel alone, ever again..." Lune choked on his words. He entangled his slender fingers with Reno's and held on.

"Lune..."

Dammit, my body just has to be immobile when things are getting nice and sweet.

Reno mused, and laughed lightly. He felt happiness, and realized that this was what he had wanted all along, ever since he had laid his eyes on the comely boy. Just his touch, warmth, closeness.

"Lune, I..."

Love you.

The sincere confession went unspoken. Reno didn't feel that it was right to say it yet, not now. Besides, he could hear rowdy footsteps approaching from the hallway. He had a pretty good idea who it might be. There was only one person in Wutai whom he knew had that kind of walking habit.

SLIDE! SKID! BANG!

"Lune, is Reno awake yet?"

The slide door opened with a vicious force as Yuffie Kisaragi stormed in. She took one look at Lune, then at Reno, and her cute face gradually became flushed red.

"Uh... did I come at a bad time? ...Uh..."

"N-no! I mean, I mean..." Lune let go of Reno's hand, adorable blush touching his face.

"Girl, have you no respect for the injured?" Reno muttered with a slightly begrudging undertone. It was a very low mutter, however, and no one heard it. "Hey, Yuffie." He said instead.

"Hey yourself. Well, Reno, how do ya feel? The Cure magic patched you up nicely, didn't it?" Yuffie babbled, averting her virgin eyes from the two guests.

"Whatever stuff you cast on me worked well enough. My insides still hurts like hell, but otherwise, I should be OK." The ex-Turk answered irritably. He winced again as another jolt of anguish tormented him.

"Hey, be thankful that you're still alive. The pain should die off as soon as the magic mends all the damage. Plus, I didn't Cure you. Lune did. Awesome job he did, too." The ninja girl retorted, insulted by Reno's lack of gratitude.

"Lune? I thought you couldn't use materia." Reno looked at his silver-tressed companion, surprised.

"I couldn't... until you were hurt. I was so angry at those men, just wanted to kill them all, and that materia you gave me..."

"The Knights of the Round?"

"It worked."

"What!?"

Reno and Yuffie exclaimed at the same time, and eyed Lune in disbelief. The Knights of the Round materia was a super-high class materia; even the most skilled magic user couldn't release its powers that easily.

"So that's what saved us both, huh?" The ex-Turk sighed. He had been so sure that he was a goner when he had collapsed during the battle. He owed his life to Lune.

"And made chunk meat out of those guys." Yuffie added on, remembering the disfigured remains of the villains.

"Then, Yuffie came and told me to use the Cure-All materia on your wounds. It worked, too." Lune concluded with a look of confusion.

"...I would be damned."

Is this the power of JENOVA? Or Sephiroth? I remember the rumors of him using materias without any training.

Reno pondered over his question. He was awed by the power of JENOVA DNA. Now, he understood why Hojo and Gust had been so intent on unlocking the secrets of the ancient queen. With that kind of power, it was possible to conquer the world.

"Reno, what's happening to me? What am I?" Lune looked down sadly.

"Dontcha worry, kiddo. You have some special gift, that's all. If it weren't for you, I'd be six feet below now." Reno placed his hand on the boy's lap gently.

"Well, so Reno, since you are up and going, I'll leave you two, OK? Uh... you guys can stay in this room." Yuffie scrambled to her feet, face scarlet once again. "There's extra set of futon inside the storage there, and I'll be back with some change of clothes." She hurried out of the room as if she were an escape convict.

"......" Lune watched the girl retreat, wide-eyed. He didn't comprehend why she was acting so strangely.

"Don't mind that girl, Lune. She's always weird like that."

"...OK."

"Look, I'm gonna take another nap. You go ahead and do whatever you want, alright?"

"I'll be here until you wake up, Reno. And... thank you for saving my life."

"No need, kiddo. You saved mine twice already."

With a smile, Reno closed his eyes and drifted off to a pleasant sleep.

"Failed!? Impossible!" Gust exclaimed in denial.

"No, Professor. The communication with Wutai has been cut off for a day. Apparently, the ex-SOLDIERS were annihilated." Mira confirmed emotionlessly.

"I don't care what it takes! Send more men! Bring me the clone!"

"Professor Gust..."

"Do as I say!"

"Yes, sir." The woman retreated obediently.

I will not fail! I cannot! I have to become the God, make the world mine. With JENOVA and Sephiroth, I must bring back Ifalna and Aeris...

The scientist gritted his teeth in desperation. He had gained all present wealth and power for that goal only. He couldn't fail, not after all he had done to acquire this position.

I will destroy Wutai if there be need. Anything to get that child, my dear Sephiroth...

A mad laughter filled the room.

"You call this food edible!?"

"Shut up! I made it, OK? Thank my effort, and eat!"

Yuffie and Reno argued over the kitchen table, plates of blackened fish in front of them. Lune watched the two silently.

"This is charcoal! Not even a roach would eat it!"

"Oh yeah? Then, you cook! Can you do a better job?"

"...Uh, no, actually..."

Reno answered sheepishly. At least, Yuffie had some sort of cooking knowledge. He, on the other hand, had never entered kitchen in his life.

"Really? Gosh, what did you guys do when the Turks were on a mission? Eat out every day?" Yuffie asked with a snicker.

"No, Rude was an excellent cook. He fed us." Reno answered, remembering his bald-headed friend.

"That expressionless baldie?"

"Yeah, with a white apron and a kettle in hand..."

"Now, that's a great picture..." Yuffie began to crack up with laughter.

"Hey! Don't laugh!" Reno warned.

"Think about it, Reno! Oh my God, it is hilarious!"

Reno thought of the seven-feet giant flipping an omelet. It struck him funny, too, and he started to laugh uncontrollably.

"...Reno, I want to go for a walk."

Lune abruptly interrupted the mirth. His clouded expression told the ex-Turk that the boy was in a bad mood.

"What's wrong, Lune? Don't tell me you tried this burnt trash... Ow!" Reno began, but was whacked to silence with Yuffie. The two glared at each other in mock anger, and burst out laughing again.

"Reno, I want to go for a walk, now. Just the two of us." The silver-haired boy insisted, eyes hard.

"Uh, sure, kiddo." The redhead consented, taken aback by the uncharacteristic demand.

What's going on with him? He's always sweet.

Reno let himself be led out of the Kisaragi residence, leaving Yuffie still laughing by herself.

"OK, kiddo, what's up? You are acting way strange." Reno stopped in middle of the Dachao mountain road, refusing to go any farther without an explanation.

Lune looked at the ex-Turk briefly, and cast his gaze down, a sign of nervousness or confusion.

"I don't know."

"Huh?"

"I don't know what I'm feeling, Reno. Back there, when you were talking to Yuffie, I... didn't like that."

"I thought you liked Yuffie."

"Oh, I do! She's really nice. But... you were looking at her the whole time, laughing with her, having so much fun." The moon-tressed boy trailed off. "I felt left out... no, worse. I don't know why I'm being so selfish, but I want your attention all to myself."

"Lune..."

Kiddo, you call that 'jealousy.'

Reno felt all warm inside, just like he did the day before when Lune had allowed him the first contact. Delirious, he reached out to hug the shorter boy in a soft embrace. Lune stiffened momentarily, but relaxed with a sigh, resting his silver head against Reno's chest.

"It's alright, Lune. You aren't selfish."

"Please don't hate me Reno. I don't want to ever let go of you..."

"Me neither."

The two of them stayed in each others' arms for some time, just standing there contented. To Reno, those minutes were the happiest moments of his life.

Cloud Strife hid himself in the shadows and waited for the guards to pass. He hardened his grip on the Ultima Weapon, and signaled to the rest of the team to proceed after him. The path into the Followers of JENOVA hideout was now accessible.

"Cloud." The handsome vampire landed softly next to the ex-SOLDIER, back from the levitation trip above the incognito building.

"Anything unusual?" Cloud asked quietly as the others huddled around him.

"No. The roof has no hatch or anything. There may be an underground passage leading out, however. Gust's quarters seems to be located in the western side, judging from the layout."

"Well, what next?" Tifa stretched her arm muscles in punching motions, all ready for the battle to come.

"What are we waitin' for? Let's go bust those SOB asses!" Barret huffed and puffed excitedly.

"Not so fast, buddy. We have to get Gust for sure." Reeve, speaking through the personification of Cait Sith, said. His downtown accent was back with the alter-ego.

The heroes grimly contemplated their plans, readying for their another major battle for the world.

Reno reached one hand towards the sleeping figure of the silver-haired boy once again. Under the dim moonlight shining through the curtains, Lune was sheer perfection. Peaceful sleeping countenance was too precious to disrupt by awakening him.

Damn, he's only one futon away...

The ex-Turk swallowed hard, trying to make up his mind. Just this afternoon, he confirmed that the boy returned his feelings, albeit awkwardly and uncertainly. And now, the desire to establish a 'closer bond' was driving Reno insane.

God, what kind of pervert am I?

A pang of good senses made the redhead give up his advances. Sighing with regret, he turned to face the other way, so that he won't be lured by the sight of Lune. It was going to be one long night.

"Yuffie!"

"Huh?"

The ninja girl immediately sat up when she found her father sitting next to her futon. Godo's serious expression was that of a warrior's, telling her that something was happening.

"What is it, dad?" Yuffie hissed under her breath.

"There are armed men surrounding the house. Some of them are up on the roof, some in the courtyard. I think that they are the Followers." Godo answered, equally silently.

"How many?"

"At least fifty. They are all over our property."

"Holy...! Oh no, Lune and Reno!" Yuffie got to her feet, and grabbed some throwing stars. She was ready to run out to the hallway when her father stopped her.

"Wait, Yuffie! Let me cast the Mighty Guard on you." Godo held the yellow materia over the teenager. A faint glow of gold radiated from Yuffie as the spell created an invincible shield around her.

"Thanks, dad. You be careful, OK?"

"You, too."

Yuffie rushed out to her friends' rescue.

Cloud dashed into the inner-most sector of the Follower hideout, accompanied by Vincent. The others had stayed back along the route to fight off the ex-SOLDIERS and maniacal members of the cult. At the end of the hallway, two heroes found a grand wooden door.

"This is it!" The blond warrior opened it.

The room was clearly an office; filled bookshelves lined the walls, computer equipments were set up extensively, and at the desk placed in the middle sat a handsome man of age fifty or so. Besides the man, a beautiful young woman in suits stood with a solemn expression.

"Professor Gust, I presume?" Vincent motioned with his Death Penalty for the two strangers to remain still.

"Yes. You two must be from Shinra. That damned corporation, always gets in my way." The scientist spat out disgustedly.

"We won't deny the connection to Shinra, but we are here on free will to stop your insane advances. Gust, you will never acquire JENOVA's power." Cloud replied coolly. "If you surrender, we will not do you harm. Otherwise..." The ex-SOLDIER drew his sword threateningly.

"Humph. Kill me, is it?" Gust concluded with a hint of amusement.

"Exactly." Vincent nodded nonchalantly. He pointed the gun at the madman, who didn't even flinch.

"Professor..." Mira started.

"Do not worry, Mira. We will not die here."

"Then you will surrender?" Cloud inquired. However, his instincts told him otherwise. He didn't like the confident little smile on Gust's face. It reminded him of Don Corneo, a villain who had foiled him in the past.

"Hmm? I'm afraid not, ex-SOLDIER. I must sue JENOVA's power to resurrect my sweet wife and daughter. I'd think you'd want Aeris back?"

"Revive Aeris!?" The young swordsman gasped. The image of beautiful Aeris Gainsborough, his lost love, sprang to his mind. There was a strong temptation.

"Cloud, she does not wish it." Vincent warned calmly, seeing his partner's dilemma.

"...I know, Vincent." Cloud shook his head. "Gust, we must stop you. Surrender, or you will die."

"No. There's another option. This," the professor pressed the hidden switch under the drawers of his desk. "Will dispatch all of you."

The shelves to the right of two heroes suddenly depressed to the floor, revealing a dark tunnel. Within the depths of the revealed storage, a behemoth-sized monster crawled out.

Cloud and Vincent stared at the mutation in disbelief. Its red scales and long arm-like tentacles clearly distinguished its identity. The Ruby WEAPON. Although miniature compared to the original, this demon was the exact copy of the destructive monster.

"How..." Cloud whispered.

"Have you forgotten that cloning is my field of research?" Gust laughed triumphantly. He stood up leisurely, safe now that his enemies' attention was turned to his creation. "Mira, let's go. The men at Wutai must have captured the clone by now."

"What!?" Cloud exclaimed. "Damn, Yuffie, Reno, and Lune are in danger!"

"...There is nothing we can do, Cloud. Let's concentrate on taking care of this monster." Vincent said gravely, already shooting at the malicious beast.

"Right..." The ex-SOLDIER readied his blade, and entered the battle.

Reno flung out of the futon when he felt someone trying to break in through the windows. He got up just in time to see a man in black shatter the glass with a kick. Lune sat up groggily, startled out of his slumber. His green eyes widened in surprise at the sight of the invaders.

"Damn, the Followers!" Reno gritted his teeth. He took up the electro rod by his pillow, as well as the bag of materias resting nearby. It was a good thing that he never let down his guard.

"Reno, let me use some materias. I want to help." Lune edged closer to the ex-Turk, pushing back his shoulder-length strands of silver.

"Sure, kiddo. Be careful with them, though. Don't forget that this is indoors." Reno placed the Contain, Barrier, Cure-All, and the Knights of the Round materia in Lune's elegant white hands. He knew that the boy would be able to wield the high-level magic; he had seen proofs enough.

The henchmen of the Followers circled the two menacingly, but their presence did not frighten neither Reno nor Lune. Reno swung his weapon leisurely with a laid-back smirk, and Lune fondled the beautiful spheres with a tense yet confident motion.

Just as long as Reno with by my side, I won't be afraid.

The silver-haired boy thought courageously. He reached out his mind towards the magic powers of the materias, releasing them with ease.

No one will ever harm my Lune. I'll see to that.

The redhead renewed his oath, strengthening it with his love for the boy. Determination gave him esteem and power like nothing else.

The battle began with the open-fire from the ex-SOLDIERS' blaster guns. Thirteen phantoms danced in the air, elemental storms ripped against the walls, and the electro rod struck out at its foes, creating bloody chaos.

Cloud Strife released his Limit attack against the terrible ruby-monster. The sharp edge of the Ultima Weapon combined with the force of the Omnislash maneuver to hack the hard-scaled WEAPON clone into smaller pieces.

Vincent, who had already transformed into his formidable Chaos form, delivered the final blow with Satan Impact. The demonic spell wiped the monster's being out, leaving nothing but the torn-up room.

"Finally!" The ex-SOLDIER sighed with relief. He was pretty badly beaten up by the battle, all tattered and bloody.

"That took too long. We have lost Gust." The handsome vampire reverted back to his slender self.

The mad scientist had escaped along with his secretary, and they were well out of the sight now. Cloud figured that there must have been a secret route leading out. Through the broken door to the hallway, he saw his comrades running to meet him.

"Cloud! Where is Gust!?" Reeve questioned through Cait Sith.

"He got away." Cloud muttered apologetically.

"Reeve, Yuffie, Reno, and Lune are in danger. Seems Gust has sent his men to Wutai." Vincent reported.

"What!? Excuse me for a moment, guys. Let me contact Wutai..." The stuffed figure went slack, losing its controller. After a moment, the cat-thing became mobilized once again. "Can't get hold of Reno. I sent for the Shinra subdivision at Wutai... Let's wait and see what's happening."

"Wait? Oh man, I hate waitin'." Barret smacked his forehead in irritation.

The last ex-SOLDIER staggered back from the invincible thirteen warriors who surrounded him. The wielder of the Knights of the Round, a beautiful silver-haired boy, narrowed his gaze uncertainly. Soft part of him was telling him to spare the man, but he knew that it would be his doom.

"Lune, you don't have to do it." The ex-Turk patted the boy on a shoulder.

"Reno..."

"Let me."

You aren't cut out to be murderer, kiddo.

Reno hardened his expression, and ended the enemy's misery with a blow to the head. That was the end of the battle for him and Lune. A sigh of relief escaped Reno, and he went back to the boy's side.

"You alright, kiddo?" The redhead wiped at the blood splattered on Lune's face. The boy's sleep-wear was smeared with blood, but none his own. Apparently, no blow had scored home, deflected by the high-class magic barrier he had cast upon himself.

"Yes. Reno, are you?"

"Not a scratch." Reno curled his lips in a grin. He, too, had escaped injury, thanks to his superhuman Turk fighting ability. He wiped sticky crimson liquid from his weapon, and put it away.

"...I wonder where Yuffie is? Is she OK?"

"Damn, I forgot all about her!"

Lune and Reno had started out of the room when the slide door opened violently.

"You guys OK!?" Yuffie exclaimed. She saw the state of the room and the corpses of men, and relaxed visibly. The skinny ninja girl looked battle-wrecked herself, but was otherwise unharmed. Her fighting skills were something to be reckoned with.

"Just fine. Guess the bastards got to you, too, huh?"

"Yeah. Made nice sandbags outta them. My dad probably hacked some dead, too." Yuffie snickered. "Well, since these scums are all dead, will you two clean out the bloody mess?"

"Sure."

"OK."

Lots of things happened following the raid by the ex-SOLDIERS. After the battle, Reno and Lune hauled the mutilated bodies of their enemies out to the plains and buried them properly. Then, when they returned to the town, men from Shinra were waiting for them. Reeve had sent the men, after hearing the news of the attack. Reno had the pleasure of explaining all of what had taken place. Of course, in the end, the two had to wipe the bloodstained walls and floors of the Kisaragi mansion, and put back the overturned furniture nicely.

"Finally," Reno threw the reddened washcloth into the bucket of crimson water. "Lune, tired yet?"

"Exhausted. But... we don't have to hide or run anymore, right?" The silver-haired boy smiled and wiped perspiration off his face. Hope and relief were evident in his emerald gaze. The men sent by the Shinra President had informed the two of Gust's defeat.

"Yup. You are officially free, kiddo." The redhead answered with matching gaiety. "We can go back to Midgar."

"...Reno, what are you going to do after we return to Midgar?" The boy asked hesitantly, as if he was almost afraid to hear the answer.

"Well..."

'Live with you, protect you, love you.'

The ex-Turk contemplated the answers which were clear in his mind. He couldn't say them right out, though, because he believed that they were too much to wish for.

"If... it's not too much to ask..." Lune flushed pink and looked down. "May I... stay with you?"

"Huh? Whoa..." Reno couldn't believe his ears. He gawked at the comely boy, speechless.

"I-It's too much, isn't it? Um, I'm sorry. It was such a selfish favor..." Lune mistook Reno's silence for a refusal, and kept his gaze down so that the man wouldn't see his moistening eyes. He didn't know why, but the thought of being separated from the ex-Turk hurt his feelings. Without wanting to, the silver-haired boy let out a choked sob; he couldn't suppress it.

"Lune!? God, kiddo, I didn't mean..." Reno panicked at the sight of boy's trembling shoulders. He put his arms around Lune, cursing himself inside for always making his beloved cry.

"Sorry... you misunderstood, didn't you? It's just that... what you asked was exactly what I was hoping for. Made me too happy to respond right away." All toughness lost, Reno crooned into Lune's ears. "I want to be with you, Lune."

"...Reno, really?" Lune looked up at the redhead Turk, who nodded sincerely. Tears streamed down the boy's fair face anew, this time, from relief and joy. He nuzzled his silver-clad head against Reno's chest.

"I love you, Lune."

Reno finally whispered the meaningful three-word phrase which he had been saving for the 'right moment.' The boy snapped his head up in surprise, cherry-hue lips parted in response. The ex-Turk sealed them tenderly with his own, and savored the sweetest moment of his life.

Professor Gust never made it to Wutai. He and Mira were attacked by a horde of JENOVA-induced monsters after their escape from the Follower hideout; they met untimely demises, the ends too sudden for the villains who had attempted to take over the world.

The Followers of JENOVA was easily disbanded by Shinra. The organization had been under Gust's one-man rule, and fell apart without his leadership. The members grew disillusioned with their hopes for JENOVA's power, due to the defeat of their leader.

Reno and Lune flew the fixed Tiny Bronco back to its rightful owner, then drove back to Midgar where they were greeted by Reeve and the ex-Avalanche heroes. The Shinra President thanked Reno for the job well done, and relieved him from the role of the bodyguard. A respectful amount of gratuity was given to the ex-Turk, who had plans for him and his young beau.

"You don't want Lune tracked? Are you sure?" Cloud asked Reeve unbelievingly.

"There is no need now." The Shinra President answered, a smile touching his lips. "Don't worry, Cloud. The 'Sephiroth' within him will never manifest."

"Reno turned out true to your calculations, I suppose." Vincent eyed his ever-cunning comrade knowingly. "Only love could seal away the seed of evil power within the child. You recruited Reno to give that love."

"No one has the power to manipulate love, Vincent. I merely gave Reno a little... push." Reeve chuckled. He straightened his expression, and confessed to his friends. "It still gives me shivers to think that Lune could have become the second Sephiroth. Hojo's abuse had driven the boy to the edge; the possibility of 'awakening' was constantly there."

"I just hope that you two are right," sighed the ex-SOLDIER.

"Believe, Cloud." Vincent advised calmly. "You know what kind of miracles love can pull."

"...Right." Cloud nodded.

Reno whistled a merry tune as he moved furniture into his new residence. The brick house was neat and compact, with two stories. He had bought it with the money he received from Reeve as a reward for his part in saving the world.

Heh, I never even dreamed of leaving Midgar slums. A new life out in this middle of nowhere; it's gonna be as peaceful as hell, not that I mind. Just as long as...

"Reno, where are my books?" Lune called from upstairs, where he was working on setting up his room.

"They are in the boxes down here. I'll take them to you."

Just as long as I have Lune.

Reno concluded his thought with a smile. The silver-haired boy was going to live with him, hopefully for many years to come. Reno saw it as a live-in relationship, Lune as a family tie he never had. Either way was fine with the redhead Turk. It was enough for him that the boy loved him.

Reno hauled the heavy boxes of books, and started up the stairs to meet with his moon-tressed beauty.

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